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Importance of continuity of carer in labour and birth
Emotional support, reassurance, and reduced anxiety Familiar presence during contractions, with a carer who understands personal cues and coping strategies Consistent emotional support can help normalize fears, manage fatigue, and maintain motivation Partners feel more engaged and confident when they recognize the same carer, facilitating shared decision-making under stress Trust-building and relationship continuity Ongoing relationship fosters trust, which can lower
joylbedford
1 day ago4 min read
Induction of labour with a Cooks balloon.
Induction of Labour with a Cook Balloon: Advantages and Disadvantages The Cook (or Cooks) balloon is a mechanical method of cervical ripening used to induce labor. It consists of a flexible catheter with a saline-filled balloon that gently applies pressure on the cervix to promote dilation and effacement, often used when cervical readiness is suboptimal. How it works (brief overview) A small, flexible balloon is inserted through the cervix into the lower uterine segment. The
joylbedford
Jan 153 min read
BENEFITS OF NATURALLY PRODUCED OXYTOCIN IN BIRTH
This version adds more detail on mechanisms, evidence context, and practical strategies than in my Instagram post. It aims to be informational and supportive. What is natural oxytocin? A peptide hormone produced by the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary. Roles in birth, breastfeeding, and bonding extend beyond contractions: it helps modulate uterine sensitivity to other signals, influences maternal behaviors, and supports milk ejection after birth. Trigg
joylbedford
Nov 6, 20254 min read
Car seat safety for a newborn
Here’s a concise, practical guide to car seat safety for a newborn. Key ideas at a glance Use a rear-facing infant car seat every time you travel, from birth until the seat’s height/weight limit is reached. Install the seat correctly using a rigid latch system or seat belt according to the car seat and vehicle manual. Position the seat in the back seat, away from airbags if possible. Ensure a snug fit: harness snug, chest clip at armpit level, no slack in straps. Keep newborn
joylbedford
Oct 25, 20253 min read
THE CASCADE OF INTERVENTION IN LABOUR AND BIRTH
The cascade of intervention in labour and birth: an extended, practical overview The cascade of intervention describes how introducing a...
joylbedford
Sep 18, 20255 min read
Informed consent in obstetric care and what is obstetric violence
Consent in Obstetric Care Definition: Consent in obstetric care refers to the process by which pregnant individuals are informed about,...
joylbedford
Aug 3, 20252 min read
Overcoming fear in childbirth: how can hypnobirthing help you regain your power.
Childbirth is one of the most significant and transformative experiences in a woman’s life. It is often associated with anticipation,...
joylbedford
Jul 22, 20254 min read
Life as an independent midwife
Being an independent midwife can be a deeply rewarding yet challenging career choice. It offers autonomy, personalized care, and the...
joylbedford
Jul 10, 20253 min read
Over medicalisation in midwifery care.
Over-medicalization in Midwifery Care: An Overview and the Role of Independent Midwifery What is Over-Medicalization in Midwifery Care?...
joylbedford
Jul 6, 20252 min read
Aromatherapy for pregnancy and birth
Safety Considerations: Use only high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable sources. Always dilute essential oils to a safe...
joylbedford
Jun 20, 20252 min read
Hormones in pregnancy and labour and how they influence birth
Labour is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones that coordinate uterine contractions, cervical ripening, and fetal readiness for...
joylbedford
Jun 15, 20252 min read
Informed consent in midwifery Care
Informed consent is a cornerstone of ethical and legal practice in healthcare, including midwifery. It embodies respect for women’s...
joylbedford
May 18, 20253 min read
How an independent midwife can support the neurodivergent client.
Neurodivergency includes but this is not a complete list ASD, ADHD, PDA, dyslexia, dyscalcula, dyspraxia etc. Independent midwifery can...
joylbedford
May 2, 20252 min read


Benefits of skin to skin contact for mother and baby
Benefits of Skin-to-Skin Contact at Birth Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, involves placing the newborn directly on the...
joylbedford
Apr 22, 20252 min read
Using the BRAIN tool to make informed decisions.
BRAIN Acronym for Supporting Physiological Birth and Informed Choices B - Benefits What are the benefits of this intervention or...
joylbedford
Apr 21, 20253 min read
Pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy
Understanding Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) in Pregnancy Pelvic girdle pain is characterized by discomfort in the pelvic region, often...
joylbedford
Apr 13, 20253 min read
Freebirthing what is it and is it legal in the UK.
What is Freebirth? Freebirth is the term used to describe the practice of giving birth without the assistance of any medical...
joylbedford
Apr 6, 20254 min read
Umbilical cord stem cell collection.
Cord Blood Stem Cell Collection: A Comprehensive Overview Cord blood stem cell collection is a medical procedure that involves harvesting...
joylbedford
Mar 28, 20253 min read
10 common myths about homebirth
Common myths surrounding homebirth. 1. Homebirth is Unsafe One of the most persistent myths is that homebirth is inherently dangerous....
joylbedford
Mar 6, 20253 min read
Vaginal seeding at caesarian section
Vaginal Seeding at Cesarean Section: An Overview Introduction Vaginal seeding, also known as microbial transfer, has garnered attention...
joylbedford
Mar 1, 20253 min read
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